Bruges

Bruges is a medieval town in Flanders, Belgium, crossed by a network of waterways. Brick gables, pointed windows, and arched stone bridges shape the cityscape, where narrow lanes wind between tall facades.

A port developed here in the 12th century, linking trade routes between the North Sea and the inland territories. When the Zwin estuary silted up in the 15th century, the town lost its direct access to the sea and its role as a trading hub.

Local bakeries sell handmade chocolates and speculoos biscuits in small shops along the lanes, where residents do their daily errands. Sunday mornings bring churchgoers to the parish masses, while vendors set up market stalls selling fresh vegetables and flowers on the central square.

Most sights lie within the compact center and can be reached on foot in under 20 minutes. A direct path from the train station leads into the old town, where signposts mark the main points of interest.

Below the belfry sits a treasury holding old charters and town seals in wrought iron chests. Every day, bells ring from the tower using a mechanism preserved since the 18th century.

Location: Arrondissement of Bruges

Inception: January 1, 1977

Elevation above the sea: 4 m

Operator: Stad Brugge

Part of: Emergency zone West Flanders 1, Politiezone Brugge

Shares border with: Blankenberge, Knokke-Heist, Oostkamp, Damme

Address: Bruges, Belgium

Phone: +3250448000

Email: info@brugge.be

Website: https://brugge.be

GPS coordinates: 51.20855,3.22677

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:48